I want to start local to get my feet wet (figuratively lol). 

My lender seems to have done a little mistake and my father who is co-signing was never told he has to be down here for the signing which was suppose to happen today at 1:00 and it cannot happen without a wet signature from him.

I work with a ton out of state investors that are just getting their feet wet, so I'd be happy to connect and see how I can help you as you're coming into the game!

I’m starting to lean more towards private lending as a way to get my toes wet and get my money working for me in a relatively stable way.I’m looking for educational resources or literature.

Hopefully it isn't too challenging to get our feet wet into a good deal with how hard the economic climate is at the moment 

Next steps are to put down a roll of plastic to prevent moisture or wet floors. 

so I definitely like the Fortuna area, but then you kind of run into the cold and constantly wet.

Gullies, trees, brush, wet ground, etc.  

Maybe you  can try a joint partnership with an experienced Investor/flipper and get your feet wet , you would be bringing capital to the table so I am sure many people would like to do that with you:)

Denver is a strong market with solid appreciation and plenty of opportunities, especially for strategies like house hacking and the BRRRR method.Your plan to start with FHA and house hacking is a great way to get your feet wet.